From ancient time, massage has been a beloved form of touch therapy. A gentle yet firm rub makes the worries of the day disappear. In many cultures, young babies are given kneading massages on their hands and limbs to facilitate better blood circulation. The Chinese have taken it a step further and discovered reflexology therapy.

With a growing trend toward holistic health, this ancient art of massage is ideal for those who are hard-pressed for time and want to be clothed during a massage. When practiced by a registered expert, reflexology therapy is a deeply relaxing treatment that provides amazing relief and long-term health benefits.

What is Reflexology Healing?

A vital energy circulates between the organs of the body. Each organ is connected to each “energy” point in the sole of your foot. When this energy is blocked due to various ailments and lifestyle changes, the part of the body relating to that blockage is affected. Reflexology aids in clearing these blockages and balancing the harmony.

A reflexologist works by stimulating the sensory receptors in the nerves of the foot, which in turn produce energy. Energy travels to the spinal cord and is finally distributed to the nervous system, thus improving the circulation. Endorphins are then released into the bloodstream, easing aches and spreading a soothing calmness throughout the body.

Types of Reflexology Therapy

Reflexology can be administered to several parts of the body, largely the hand, foot and face.

Hand Reflexology

Each area of the body is believed to have a “gateway” through the hands and feet. When the pressure points located on the palms and back side of hands are massaged appropriately, different organs and functions of the body are stimulated. When you have a problem, a hand reflexologist will massage the appropriate zone to stimulate the organ or portion of the nervous system that needs help.

Foot Reflexology

Foot reflexology is a therapeutic form of the ancient foot rub and most widely known form of reflexology. Today's lifestyle encourages women to cram their feet into tight shoes that put pressure on their spines and cause imbalance to their natural gait. Reflexologists work to correct this imbalance. Even placing a foot roller under your desk is a form of foot reflexology.

When pressure is applied to specific points on the feet, the body is stimulated from the inside out. Each of these specific points is called reflex zones. Systematic pressure to these zones increases blood circulation and dissolves uric acid deposits, triggering a natural healing process. Foot reflexology works not only on tired feet but various other ailments ranging from sinusitis to infertility. It also helps in removing toxins from the body.

Facial Reflexology

Facial reflexology is a separate therapy to traditional foot/hand reflexology. This gentle non-invasive approach works marvelously in minimizing lines and wrinkles on the face, aids in lymphatic drainage and increases blood circulation.

The treatment works on healing the connections between the central nervous system and the meridians. It is a combination of Oriental wisdom, traditional South American facial reflex zones and modern neuro-anatomy.

The most commonly used oil in this therapy is rosehip oil. The essential fatty acid in rosehip oil contains anti-bacterial properties that relieve symptoms of eczema and dermatitis, helps skin tissue regeneration and eases stretch marks and wrinkles. It can be used on any skin type.

Meridian Therapy

It was the Chinese who, more than 5000 years ago, identified the 12 acupuncture meridians in the human body. Used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine, meridians are invisible lines through the body that carry energy to every organ and system. Meridian therapies are highly effective in treating learning problems, phobias, depression, addiction and behavioral issues.

Meridian therapy involves the application of specific pressure points along the meridians. Its aim is to keep the body's vital energy flowing and to eliminate energy loss or blockage. The problem in the energy system is relieved by simply tapping on the basic meridian points. This therapy also increases the body’s self-healing capacity and prevents future imbalances.

What Happens During Reflexology Therapy?

Your reflexologist will start by getting details about your health history as you are seated in a massage chair. Sometimes you can also be made to lie down, but you will remain clothed at all times. Some light oil or cream is generally used for ease of massage, but traditional reflexology is done only by using thumbs. The practitioner may also use a blunt wooden instrument to stimulate the pressure points. A treatment usually takes one hour.

If you look at the reflexology map, you will realize that the left side of the body is reflected in the left foot/hand, and the same goes for the right side of the body. During a reflexology treatment, the masseur will apply firm but gentle pressure on these reflex points. This stimulation helps induce deep relaxation, balance the hormonal system and release toxins.

Experienced reflexologists can identify problems by merely touching your pressure points or noticing skin changes. They can also be informed of a particular problem, which helps them concentrate on the reflex zones that are related to that problem.

Reflexology as Treatment

Some women have claimed to get pregnant after 3 months of weekly reflexology. Some have said their hormonal imbalances were cured after a single session. For best results, reflexology sessions need to be consistent. Chinese practitioners recommend reflexology once a day for 6 days in 2-week segments. They then review the results and prescribe more segments if necessary. A skilled practitioner will guide you in drafting a course that is suited for your problem.

Reflexology is widely used to treat circulatory imbalances, headaches/migraine, muscular pain and menstrual problems. Used in combination with an herbal diuretic, it acts as a detox therapy to remove toxins. It is particularly helpful for relieving stress, insomnia, digestive disorders and infections such as sinusitis and cystitis.

Reflexology for Relaxation

Some nations like Thailand and Malaysia are famed for reflexology therapy. You don’t have to resort to exotic travel to benefit from this massage. It is possible to get it done in your local salons or even do it on yourself.

Points to Remember During a Session

* Do not go for a foot reflexology session when you are having your period or if you are pregnant. Opt for facial reflexology during the first trimester of pregnancy.

* Always mention any or all medical problems you might be having at the time of treatment. Ideally, the reflexologist should make you fill out a form where you can enter your health history.

* Some people have a very low threshold for pain, and even gentle pressure applied on their power points can leave them sore. If you feel discomfort or pain during the treatment, immediately tell the reflexologist.

* Drink a glass of water after the session. It will flush out the toxins from your body. Try to eat lightly that day. Avoid processed food, eating salad and soup instead.

After a reflexology session, you will definitely feel some changes in the body. Some people experience coughing up phlegm for several days until their sinuses clear, and others have reported different subtle side effects. These symptoms are neither alarming nor dangerous; they show that the treatment is working.

You should be aware that treating serious illnesses with reflexology therapy could delay the seeking of help from proven medicines/methods. However, registered reflexologists rarely treat one without medical consent. Armed with this new information about reflexology, you should be prepared to detox and relax your body with confidence.

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